Water Line Break Damages Multi-Family Unit

Just after 12:30 a.m. Anchorage Fire Department crews were sent to a multi-family residence at 4302 Cope St. for a reported water problem.  When the Truck Company from the Spenard Fire Station arrived they discovered a major break in a water line outside the building that was flooding the lower units of the structure.  All occupants were safely evacuated and two additional AFD units were dispatched to assist on scene crews.  AWWU crews were requested immediately, and Street Maintenance crews were also dispatched to assist with the water flowing into the nearby streets, 2 blocks away.  APD was also requested to block off the affected area. 

Utilities to the building had to be shut off as the water had risen to over 2 feet deep and was endangering the heating system and electric service.  Enstar Natural Gas Co. and Chugach Electric Co.s were requested to respond.  The Red Cross was also contacted to respond and assisted with displaced residents.  

The extent of water damage was beyond AFD capabilities and a private contractor was contacted to assist with restoration services.  The water damage was considered as significant by on-scene crews and no estimate was available at the time of this report.  It’s unknown when residents will be able to return to their homes.  Attempts to reach the property owner were unsuccessful before AFD crews departed the scene nearly 3 hours after they first arrived.  The property was turned over to the restoration company.